In 2001, the UN decided that, beginning in 2002, the International Day of Peace should be observed on 21 September each year. The Assembly declared that the Day be observed as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence, an invitation to all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities during the Day. It invited all to commemorate the Day in an appropriate manner, including through education and public awareness, and to cooperate with the United Nations in establishing a global ceasefire.

In 2005 Adelaide Central YHA in South Australia, Brisbane City YHA, Cairns Central YHA, and Airlie Beach YHA in Queensland, Melbourne Metro YHA in Victoria, and the old Britannia International YHA in Western Australia, all held International Peace Day celebrations at their hostels.

So head to one of the following YHAs for a fun-filled day of sausage sizzles, entertainment, paper crane making and much more.

	Sydney YHAs, New South Wales
	When:		11am, Friday 22nd September
	Where:		Railway Square YHA
	What:		Sydney YHAs will host their biggest Peace Day Challenge yet, on Friday 22 September. Kicking off with an 'Amazing Race', participants will be teamed up with other adventurous souls to take part in a race around the city. Using clues to win the dash (and prizes) to the finish line, the route will take in some interesting checkpoints along the way, including attractions and places not normally visited by backpackers. Following the race, entrants can test their knowledge and wit to win great prizes at Trivia Night, followed by an after party at Sydney Central YHA's Scubar.
	More Info:		The Peace Day Challenge kicks off at Railway Square YHA at 11.00am, but you’ll need to pre-register for the race with Glebe Point YHA on (02) 9692 8418.

	Adelaide Central YHA, South Australia
	When:		12pm - 8pm, Sunday 17th September
	Where:		Light Square (Opposite Adelaide Central YHA)
	What:		Entertainment for the day will involve live bands, dance, live art and other roving performances, massage, reiki, astrology & energy readings, polarity therapy, henna & face painting, belly dance workshops, fire twirlers, juggling, clowns & kids fun stuff. There'll be all sorts of food & market stalls, clothing, books, African jewellery, Nepalese Fair Trade goods, Conservation Volunteers, Oxfam, World Vision, Amnesty, Recreation SA, Wilderness Society, Bike SA, Million Trees Programme, students artists from Adelaide Centre for the Arts selling art, ceramics, prints etc & international students from Adelaide TAFE will combining this day with their multicultural week. Headlining the entertainment are: Labjacd, Mia Dyson, The Audreys, Sime Nugent, Liz Stringer, Heather Frahn, E Type Jazz, Da Da Nii, Las Chicas Bomba, and much much more!
	More Info:		Call Tanya or Di on 08 8414 3001 at YHA South Australia, or visit www.yhapeacefestival.org

	Melbourne Metro YHA, Victoria
	When:		6 – 8 pm, Thursday 21st September
	Where:		Melbourne Metro YHA (rooftop lounge)
	What:		A BBQ well be held at the Melbourne Metro YHA rooftop lounge on International Day of Peace, Thursday 21st September. The event will also double as the official opening of the Backpacker Essentials Photo Exhibition at Melbourne Metro YHA. Peace Day T-shirts and Wrist bands will be available to purchase at the event.
	More Info:		Phone Melbourne Metro YHA on 03 9329 8599